Environment - Triethanolamine is likely to be released mainly to
water, where it may biodegrade. Transfer to other environmental
compartments is likely to be limited.

Triethanolamine is of low toxicity to fish, Daphnia and algae.
Several potential release sources of triethanolamine have been identified.
The PECs derived for release of triethanolamine from production are
greater than the MTC and PNEC, indicating that further work may be needed
in order to refine the assessment. The PECs derived for use of
triethanolamine in metal working fluids are less than the MTC and PNEC,
and indicate that triethanolamine does not pose a risk to aquatic
organisms from this use.

Triethanolamine is a basic compound, thus if it is released to water in
large quantities, effects on the pH of the receiving water might be
expected.

Human health - Triethanolamine is of low toxicity following single
exposures. There were some signs of systemic toxicity at high exposure
levels, and mild skin irritation following repeated exposures using the
dermal route. It is not genotoxic, carcinogenic, or toxic to development
or the reproductive system.

IF FURTHER WORK IS RECOMMENDED, SUMMARISE ITS
NATURE

No further toxicity testing is required.

Further information would help to refine the exposure assessment:

- data from production sites in other countries,

- more information relating to occupational exposure and the use of
triethanolamine in consumer
products.